Spain captured its second FIFA World Cup title on Sunday, defeating defending champions Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the final match of the 2026 tournament held in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 105th minute, breaking a scoreless deadlock that persisted through 98 minutes of regulation play. The victory marks Spain's first World Cup win since 2010.
The tournament, which commenced on June 11, featured 48 teams and was co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This year's final was played in front of an audience exceeding 70,000 spectators at MetLife Stadium.
This World Cup final potentially marks the last for Argentinian superstar Lionel Messi, whose storied career has spanned two decades. Messi and Argentina aimed to replicate their 2022 victory over France.
Spain's path to the championship was bolstered by 19-year-old phenomenon Lamine Yamal, who also contributed to the team's 2024 European Championship win. The Spanish defense proved formidable throughout the tournament, conceding only one goal prior to the final.
Pre-Match and Halftime Spectacle
The event was enhanced by a historic halftime show, the first of its kind in World Cup final history. The performance featured a lineup of global artists including Madonna, Justin Bieber, Shakira, and BTS, along with a special appearance by the Muppets.
Earlier, Jennifer Hudson performed the national anthem. The closing ceremony preceding the match also included notable performers and personalities such as Post Malone, actor Tom Cruise, singers Laura Pausini and Nicole Scherzinger, and streamer IShowSpeed.
The match was broadcast in the U.S. on FOX and Telemundo, with streaming options available on FOX One and Peacock.
President Donald Trump, who was in attendance at the stadium, is expected to present the World Cup trophy to the Spanish team.